Hall Of Famer ‘Deacon’ Jones Passes At Age 74

The greatest NFL Sacker of all-time has passed, as it was announced today that David “Deacon” Jones has died.

The Hall of Fame defensive end was the one that created the word ‘sack,’ and many felt that he was better than any man alive when he came to getting to the quarterback and getting him on the ground.

Jones died of natural causes at his home in Southern California on Monday night at the age of 74.

“Deacon Jones was one of the greatest players in NFL history. Off the field, he was a true giant,” said Redskins general manager Bruce Allen, whose father, George, coached Jones with the Los Angeles Rams.

“His passion and spirit will continue to inspire those who knew him. He was a cherished member of the Allen family and I will always consider him my big brother.”

Because sacks didn’t become an official statistic until 1982, Jones’ total is uncertain, but many felt he blew away all others in that stat.

Jones was the leader of the Rams’ Fearsome Foursome unit from 1961-71 and then played for San Diego for two seasons before finishing his career with the Redskins in 1974. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1980 and made the league’s 75th anniversary all-time squad.

“Deacon Jones has been the most inspirational person in my football career,” said former teammate and fellow Hall of Famer Jack Youngblood.

Jones made the Pro Bowl every year from 1964-70 and played in eight overall. He combined with fellow Hall of Famer Merlin Olsen, Rosey Grier and Lamar Lundy on a defensive line that at times was unblockable.